San Pedro Church is a charming and elegant church overlooking the sea in the historic center of Gijón. With its neo-Romanesque design, it is one of the architectural treasures of the region. At night, see the church illuminated in a golden hue and reflected on the surface of the water.
Arrive at the spacious plaza in front of the church and admire the façade from the comfort of one of the many benches. The front features a gorgeous sloped colonnade, with three arched portals on each side. Marvel at the imposing central tower, whose base has a tall arched entrance containing a rose window.
Enter through this passage and find yourself in the large nave. Thick pillars flank the central aisle that divides the dark brown pews. Colorful light permeates the building through the mesmerizing stained-glass windows. In the evening, go for a coastal stroll past the lanterns that light up the plaza.
Learn about the original church on this site that was constructed in the 15th century. A little after it was destroyed in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War, the current incarnation was built on the same spot.
The church is one of the most popular wedding venues in the city. Bring a blanket to relax on San Lorenzo Beach and enjoy the view of the festivities in the church, which is at the western end of the beach.
Visit the church for free. Note that it is open to the public only during times of worship. Weddings tend to take place here on Friday nights, Saturday afternoons and Saturday nights.
San Pedro Church is on the eastern side of the Old Town quarter, on the promontory that juts out from northern Gijón. Ride a bus to a nearby stop or walk here from the adjacent San Lorenzo Beach. While you’re here, stop at other treasures such as the Cerro Santa Catalina, the Punta Peña del Cuervo and the Museo Barjola.
